What is cluster headache?
According to a study published in StatPearls, cluster headaches are severe, recurring headaches that typically occur on one side of the head. The pain is often centered around the eye. However, not all headaches that are unilateral are cluster headaches.
The severe pain may be accompanied by other symptoms such as a runny nose, watery eyes, or nasal congestion. Cluster headaches can last from 15 minutes to 3 hours and can occur multiple times a day, for weeks or even months.
Causes of cluster headaches
A study published in Frontiers in Pain Research suggests that cluster headaches may be the result of overactivity of certain nerves in the brain that control pain and blood flow to the head. Other factors include:
Genetics: A study published in the International Headache Society found that people with a family history of cluster headaches are more likely to develop the condition than the general population.
Environmental factors: According to Dr. Sandeep Sonawane (India), some environmental factors can cause or aggravate cluster headaches such as alcohol use, exposure to strong odors, bright lights, mental stress and changes in altitude. Identifying and avoiding these factors can help people reduce the number and severity of cluster headaches.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes can contribute to the development or worsening of cluster headaches, especially in women. Hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, menopause, or the menstrual cycle can lead to or worsen headaches.
Symptoms of cluster headaches
Cluster headaches are characterized by severe, throbbing pain that usually occurs on one side of the head, often around the eye. The pain can be so intense that it causes the sufferer to pace or rock back and forth, according to a study published in MedicinePlus. Other symptoms may include:
- Watery eyes: When a headache comes, the eye on the painful side of the head may have continuous watery eyes.
- Nasal congestion: The affected side of the nose may have a stuffy or runny nose.
- Swollen eyelids: The eyelid on the affected side may be swollen.
- Dilated pupils: The pupil on the affected side may dilate.
- Restlessness: People with cluster headaches may feel restless and agitated.
- Sweating: The affected side of the face may sweat excessively.
- Sensitivity to light: People with cluster headaches may feel irritable, uncomfortable, and sensitive to light.
